Experience the magic of the Enchanted Isles aboard the Galaxy II Eco Catamaran. The new luxury catamaran not only allows you to explore the wealth of the Galapagos Islands, a naturalist’s paradise, but the catamaran was built to reduce the environmental impacts of tourism so that the Galapagos can remain the paradise we found. Hike, snorkel, kayak and watch for wildlife throughout the islands know that you are traveling aboard a catamaran that practices responsible tourism from its construction to its fuel and water consumption.
Each day, your Galapagos cruise tour takes you into the captivating heart of the archipelago. From the moment you wake up, you are surrounded by panoramic views of the sea and the chance to see a passing whale, dolphin or bird heading to its nest. Onshore, you actively experience the Galapagos Islands with naturalist-led hikes, snorkeling and swimming sessions and sea kayaking expeditions—not to mention the face-to-face time with some of the most amazing and friendly wildlife in the world. Whether you’re swimming with Galapagos penguins, sea lions and sea turtles or walking alongside giant Galapagos tortoises, hopping blue-footed boobies or sun-bathing marine iguanas, each day is a fascinating look into a unique wildlife haven.
Experience the full wonders of the Galapagos onboard the Galaxy II Eco Catamaran, and do it in the comfort only a luxury cruise ship can bring you.
Images & Videos
Itinerary
Day 4 Day Cruise
4 Day Cruise Overview
Travel from Santa Cruz to San Cristobal Islands on this introductory 4-day expedition through the Galapagos Islands. Get up close to giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Station, go snorkeling in the spectacular crater of Devil’s Crown and witness marine iguanas, finches and masked boobies while hiking on Española Island.
Day 1 - Santa Cruz Island - Charles Darwin Station
Fly into Baltra Island airport where you will be welcomed by one of our representatives and transferred to the Galaxy II. Enjoy lunch on board, then make your first excursion to the Charles Darwin Research Station in the main port of Santa Cruz. Witness giant Galapagos tortoises and land iguanas up close and learn about the conservation work being done to ensure their survival.
Day 2 - Floreana Island
We’ll begin the day with a wet landing at Punta Cormorant on the west coast of Floreana Island, which is famed for its dark green beach composed of olivine crystals. Go fossicking for a range of marine invertebrates and photograph the sea lions, marine iguanas and pelicans often found here.
Our second stop for the day is at the submerged crater of Devil’s Crown, one of the best snorkeling locations in the Galapagos Islands. Take advantage of the excellent visibility to spot tropical fish, purple sea stars and spiky sea urchins, as well as harmless white-tipped sharks.
In the afternoon we’ll continue to Post Office Bay on the northern shores of Floreana Island where a wooden barrel was established as the island’s original post office in 1793. You can still drop your postcards in the barrel today to send to family and friends back home!
Day 3 - Española Island
After breakfast on board, we’ll make a dry landing at Punta Suarez, which boasts a high percentage of endemism due to its isolated location. Keep an eye out for blue-footed boobies and waved albatross as we walk across Española Island, together with large colonies of marine iguanas, finches and masked boobies.
After lunch on board, we’ll continue to Gardner Bay for a short walk along the beach to observe its boisterous colony of sea lions. You’ll have plenty of time to swim and snorkel in these marine species-rich waters to spot sea turtles, marine iguanas and a staggering diversity of tropical fish.
Day 4 - San Cristobal Island
We’ll arrive early in the capital of the Galapagos at San Cristobal to visit the impressive Puerto Baquerizo Interpretation Center. Learn about the formation of the archipelago, the evolution of its species and the human settlements that have left their market on the Galapagos Islands.
It’s then time to transfer to the San Cristobal Airport for your return flight to mainland Ecuador.
Day 5 Day Cruise
5 Day Cruise Overview
Experience the wildlife diversity and volcanic landscapes of Santa Fe, the South Plazas and North Seymour Island on this 5-day itinerary from San Cristobal. Navigate around the iconic Kicker Rock while spotting sea birds, witness the unique land iguanas of Santa Fe and go snorkeling in the marine-rich waters of Darwin Bay.
Day 1 - San Cristobal Island
Fly into San Cristobal Island where you will be met by one of our representatives and transferred to the Galaxy II. Settle into your cabin and enjoy lunch on board as you are given your first orientation while the crew weighs anchor.
In the afternoon we will navigate Kicker Rock (or Leon Dormido), which features two rocks resembling a lion and serves as a nesting site for numerous seabirds.
Day 2 - Santa Fe Island & the South Plazas
After breakfast on board, we will make a wet landing on Santa Fe Island to go hiking, swimming and snorkeling. It’s beautiful bay is protected by a natural barrier of rocks where a colony of sea lions resides. Santa Fe is home to one of two species of land iguanas found in the Galapagos Islands that feed on the fruits of cactus. Marine iguanas and land doves can also be spotted, together with sea tortoises, rays and a variety of tropical fishes while snorkeling.
In the afternoon we will sail to the South Plazas, two small islands created by land uplift that are home to a unique (and slightly smaller) species of land iguana. We’ll hike along a spectacular cliff where sea birds nest and witness the colony of around 1,000 sea lions that play boisterously along the shores.
Day 3 - North Seymour Island – Mosquera Islet
We’ll begin the day with an excursion to North Seymour Island, which was formed by the uplift of volcanic marine lava and is home to marine fossils dating to the Pleistocene era. A healthy population of land iguanas brought from Baltra Island can be seen here, together with bushy vegetation favored by frigatebirds.
After lunch on board, we’ll continue to Mosquera Islet that nestles between Baltra and North Seymour Islands. It’s home to a large colony of sea lions that reside alongside several species of birds.
Day 4 - Genovesa Island - Darwin Bay & El Barranco
This morning we'll make a wet landing at Darwin Bay on Genovesa, a small island in the northeast of the archipelago. Follow the walking trail that leads through its mangrove swamp to spot frigatebirds, marine iguanas, red-footed and masked boobies, then dive into the waters to cool off while snorkeling.
In the afternoon we’ll visit El Barranco, or Prince Phillip’s Steps, and follow the trail to spot tropic birds, red-footed boobies, Nazca boobies, doves, finches and frigatebirds.
Day 5 - Punta Carrion
Your final day begins with a navigation of Punta Carrion in the northeast of Santa Cruz where you can spot a variety of sea birds nesting in the rocky cliffs. It’s then time to transfer to the airport for your return flight to mainland Ecuador.
Day 6 Day Cruise A
6 Day Cruise Overview
Discover the natural wonders of Santa Cruz, Isabela and Fernandina Islands on this 6-day itinerary from Baltra. Witness white-tipped reef sharks at Tintoreras in the bay of Puerto Villamil, spot giant tortoises and land iguanas while hiking at Urbina Bay, then go snorkeling amidst a myriad of marine life at Punta Vicente Roca.
Day 1 - Baltra Island & Santa Cruz Island
Fly into Baltra Island airport where you will be welcomed by one of our representatives and transferred to the Galaxy II. Enjoy lunch on board, then make your first excursion to the Charles Darwin Research Station in the main port of Santa Cruz. Witness giant Galapagos tortoises and land iguanas up close, with the center serving as the main breeding site in the archipelago, and learn about the conservation work being done to ensure their survival.
Day 2 - Isabela Island
After breakfast on board, begin the day with an excursion to Tintoreras in the bay of Puerto Villamil and enjoy a short walk to see the large numbers of marine iguanas basking in the sun, together with lava lizards, herons and sea lions. The island is named after the white-tipped reef sharks (“tintoreras”) that can often be seen swimming in the channels, together with sea turtles, rays and a vast array of tropical fish.
In the afternoon we will travel to the breeding center that’s located just outside of Puerto Villamil and is dedicated to the reproduction of various species of tortoises. Wander its beautiful gardens that are home to a range of native plant species, then visit the Humedales and Orchilla Hill to soak up the views of Puerto Villamil, the Sierra Negra Volcano and the surrounding islets. We’ll also visit the historic “Wall of Tears”, which was built by prisoners and stands as a lasting legacy of the Galapagos Islands’ human history.
Day 3 - Isabela Island
This morning we will anchor in Elizabeth Bay on the west coast of Isabela Island, which is one of the archipelago’s most important penguin breeding sites. Wander through the red mangrove cove that is home to brown pelicans and flightless cormorants, as well as spotted eagle rays, golden rays and sea lions.
After lunch on board, we'll make an excursion to Urbina Bay, which nestles at the base of Alcedo Volcano. Follow the short trail to spot land iguanas, giant tortoises and Galapagos hawks, while also keeping an eye out for red and blue lobsters.
Day 4 - Fernandina & Isabela Island
This morning we’ll travel to Espinoza Point on Fernandina Island that is renowned for its large colony of marine iguanas. It’s also home to healthy populations of flightless cormorants, Galapagos penguins and hawks, while boasting magnificent views across Fernandina and its towering volcano.
After lunch on board, we’ll continue to Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela Island, which is comprised of two separate coves. Photograph the sea lions and marine iguanas, together with flightless cormorants, blue-footed and masked boobies, then enjoy a snorkeling excursion to spot seahorses and the unique mola mola sunfish.
Day 5 - Santiago Island & Rabida Island
After breakfast on board, we’ll make an excursion to the black sand beach of Egas Point that is colored due to volcanic deposits from the Pan de Azucar volcano. Its crater lake transforms to a salt mine during the dry months, which functioned unsuccessfully in the early 20th century.
In the afternoon we’ll stop at Rabida Island to explore its red sand beach, coastal lagoon and arid vegetation. Witness its colony of sea lions basking on the red-tinged rocks, together with brown pelicans, blue-footed and masked boobies.
Day 6 - Santa Cruz Island - Black Turtle Cove
Your final day begins with an excursion to Black Turtle Cove in the north of Santa Cruz Island, which is surrounded by mangroves and accessible only by dinghy. It provides a safe refuge for an abundance of marine life, including sea turtles, rays and black-tip reef sharks.
It’s then time to transfer to the airport for your return flight to mainland Ecuador.
Day 6 Day Cruise B
6 Day Cruise B Overview
Experience the volcanic landscapes of Bartolome Island and wildlife endemism of Española Island on this 6-day itinerary from Baltra. Go swimming and snorkeling off the white sands of Las Bachas Beach, witness the pahoehoe flows of Santiago Island and get up close to giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Station.
Day 1 - Baltra Island & Santa Cruz Island - Las Bachas Beach
Fly into Baltra Island airport where you will be welcomed by one of our representatives and transferred to the Galaxy II. Enjoy a welcome drink on board and lunch before embarking on your first excursion to the beautiful beach of Las Bachas. It is named after the barges that were abandoned here by the US Navy during World War II, with a flamingo-filled lagoon and idyllic waters for snorkeling and swimming.
Day 2 - Santiago Island & Bartolome Island
Begin the day with a wet landing at Sullivan Bay, which is renowned for its pristine lava landscapes, including impressive pahoehoe flows and lava colonizing plants.
As you enjoy lunch on board, we will sail towards Bartolome Island to witness its incredible lava cones and pipes on a hike to the summit, from where there are magnificent views across the archipelago. There will also be plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling in the afternoon before searching for penguins at Pinnacle Rock.
Day 3 - Santa Cruz Island - Highlands & Charles Darwin Station.
After breakfast on board, we’ll embark on an excursion into the highlands of Santa Cruz for a short trek to find giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Then return to the main port of Santa Cruz Island to visit the Charles Darwin Station and learn about the vital conservation work being conducted and breeding of giant Galapagos tortoises and land iguanas.
Day 4 - Floreana Island
We’ll begin the day with a wet landing at Punta Cormorant on the west coast of Floreana Island, which is famed for its dark green beach composed of olivine crystals. Go fossicking for a range of marine invertebrates and photograph the sea lions, marine iguanas and pelicans often found here.
Our second stop for the day is at the submerged crater of Devil’s Crown, one of the best snorkeling locations in the Galapagos Islands. Take advantage of the excellent visibility to spot tropical fish, purple sea stars and spiky sea urchins, as well as white-tipped sharks.
Day 5 - Española Island
After breakfast on board, we’ll make a dry landing at Punta Suarez, which boasts a high percentage of endemism due to its isolated location. Keep an eye out for blue-footed boobies and waved albatross as we walk across Española Island, together with large colonies of marine iguanas, finches and masked boobies.
After lunch on board, we’ll continue to Gardner Bay for a short walk along the beach to observe its boisterous colony of sea lions. You’ll have plenty of time to swim and snorkel in these marine species-rich waters to spot sea turtles, marine iguanas and a staggering diversity of tropical fish.
Day 6 - San Cristobal Island
We’ll arrive early in the capital of the Galapagos Islands at San Cristobal to visit the modern architectural space of the Puerto Baquerizo Interpretation Center. Learn about the formation of the archipelago, the evolution of its species and the human settlements that have left their mark on the Galapagos Islands.
It’s then time to transfer to the San Cristobal Airport for your return flight to mainland Ecuador.
Day 8 Day Cruise
8 Day Cruise Overview
Encounter incredible wildlife and unique volcanic landscapes on the islands of Isabela, Bartolome, Fernandina and Santa Cruz during this 8-day itinerary from Baltra. Witness white-tipped reef sharks at Tintoreras, go snorkeling in the marine-rich waters of Punta Vicente Roca and photograph the impressive pahoehoe lava flows of Sullivan Bay.
Day 1 - Baltra Island & Santa Cruz Island
Fly into Baltra Island airport where you will be welcomed by one of our representatives and transferred to the Galaxy II. Enjoy lunch on board, then make your first excursion to the Charles Darwin Station in the main port of Santa Cruz. Witness giant Galapagos tortoises and land iguanas up close, with the center serving as the main breeding site in the archipelago, and learn about the conservation work being done to ensure their survival.
Day 2 - Isabela Island
After breakfast on board, begin the day with an excursion to Tintoreras in the bay of Puerto Villamil and enjoy a short walk to see the large numbers of marine iguanas basking in the sun, together with lava lizards, herons and sea lions. The island is named after the white-tipped reef sharks (“tintoreras”) that can often be seen swimming in the channels, together with sea turtles, rays and a vast array of tropical fish.
In the afternoon we will travel to the breeding center that’s located just outside of Puerto Villamil and is dedicated to the reproduction of various species of tortoises. Wander its beautiful gardens that are home to a range of native plant species, then visit the Humedales and Orchilla Hill to soak up the views of Puerto Villamil, the Sierra Negra Volcano and the surrounding islets. We’ll also visit the historic “Wall of Tears”, which was built by prisoners and stands as a lasting legacy of the Galapagos Islands’ human history.
Day 3 - Isabela Island
This morning we will anchor in Elizabeth Bay on the west coast of Isabela Island, which is one of the archipelago’s most important penguin breeding sites. Wander through the red mangrove cove that is home to brown pelicans and flightless cormorants, as well as spotted eagle rays, golden rays and sea lions.
After lunch on board, we'll make an excursion to Urbina Bay, which nestles at the base of Alcedo Volcano. Follow the short trail to spot land iguanas, giant tortoises and Galapagos hawks, while also keeping an eye out for red and blue lobsters.
Day 4 - Fernandina Island & Isabela Island
This morning we’ll travel to Espinoza Point on Fernandina Island that is renowned for its large colony of marine iguanas. It’s also home to healthy populations of flightless cormorants, Galapagos penguins and hawks, while boasting magnificent views across Fernandina and its towering volcano.
After lunch on board, we’ll continue to Punta Vicente Roca on Isabela Island, which is comprised of two separate coves. Photograph the sea lions and marine iguanas, together with blue-footed and masked boobies and flightless cormorants, then enjoy a snorkeling excursion to spot seahorses and the unique mola mola sunfish.
Day 5 - Santiago Island & Rabida Island
After breakfast on board, we’ll make an excursion to the black sand beach of Egas Point that is colored due to volcanic deposits from the Pan de Azucar volcano. Its crater lake transforms to a salt mine during the dry months, which functioned unsuccessfully in the early 20th century.
In the afternoon we’ll stop at Rabida Island to explore its red sand beach, coastal lagoon and arid vegetation. Witness its colony of sea lions basking on the red-tinged rocks, together with brown pelicans, blue-footed and masked boobies.
Day 6 - Santa Cruz Island - Black Turtle Cove
After breakfast, we’ll embark on an excursion to Black Turtle Cove in the north of Santa Cruz Island, which is surrounded by mangroves and accessible only by dinghy. It provides a safe refuge for an abundance of marine life, including sea turtles, rays and black-tip reef sharks.
We will also stop at the beautiful beach of Las Bachas, named after the barges that were abandoned here by the US Navy during World War II, which features a flamingo-filled lagoon and idyllic waters for snorkeling and swimming.
Day 7 - Santiago Island & Bartolome Island
Begin the day with a wet landing at Sullivan Bay, which is renowned for its pristine lava landscapes, including impressive pahoehoe flows and lava colonizing plants.
As you enjoy lunch on board, we will sail towards Bartolome Island to witness its incredible lava cones and pipes on a hike to the summit, from where there are magnificent views across the archipelago. There will also be plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling in the afternoon before searching for penguins at Pinnacle Rock.
Day 8 - Santa Cruz Island - Highlands
After breakfast on board, we’ll embark on an excursion into the highlands of Santa Cruz for a short trek to find giant tortoises in their natural habitat. Then it’s time to transfer to the airport for your return flight to mainland Ecuador.
Dates & Rates
Supplementary Information
Note:
* Children discount (under 12 years old): 10% from the net rate
* Single Supplement 100% from net rate
* Ask for charter departures
Includes:
Transfers in Galapagos
Accommodation in double cabin
All meals during the cruise
Professional Bilingual Guide level II
Visits & Excursions according itinerary
Snorkel Gear (mask, tube and fins)
Kayak
Purify water, coffee and tea available during the cruise
Does Not Include:
Local flight to/from Galapagos
Galapagos National Park Entrance Fee
Galapagos Transit card
Isabela Island dock Tax applies in itinerary B or D
Soft & alcoholic Drinks
Tips
Services not indicated
Ship Details
Technical Specifications
Type: First class motor catamaran
Construction: Guayaquil 2014
Length: 27 m
Beam: 10.50m
Draft: 1.15 m
Capacity: 16 passengers
Crew: 8 members + 1 bilingual guide
Cruising speed: 10 – 11 knots
Engines: 2 Cummins marine 350
Water capacity: 2500 gallons.
Diesel capacity: 4000 gallons
Electric power: 110V and 220V
Crew:
They will your hosts during your journey on board Galaxy Ecocatamaran and make your stay an unforgettable experience. Delicious food, cozy areas, our bartender offers your yummy cocktails, staff always ready to help you, cooperative guides
Staterooms
Double Cabin
All cabins have private facilities such as: private bathrooms, cold/hot water, air conditioned, hair dryer, telephone for internal communication on board, safe box and high speaker.
Twin Cabin
All the cabins have private facilities such as: private bathrooms, cold/hot water, air conditioned, hair dryer, telephone for internal communication on board, safe box and high speaker.
Ship Photos
Deck Plans
Reviews
FAQ & More
Where are the Galapagos Islands?
The Galapagos Islands (or Archipelago de Colon) are a Province of Ecuador located about 500 miles (800 kilometers) west of the Ecuadorian coast and are located directly on the equator. Learn more about the Galapagos Islands in our Galapagos Travel Guide.
When is the best time to visit? What is the weather like?
If you're planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands, be sure to check out our Galapagos Weather Overview. We've included a seasonal snapshot as well as a month by month break down of both weather and wildlife trends to help you pick the very best time to visit the Islands. For those who are more visual, we have a great Galapagos weather and wildlife info-graphic.
Can you book my flights?
For most of our tours we book the necessary round-trip flights from Ecuador mainland to the Galapagos Islands. Please refer to your reservation materials for specific details regarding flights.
We do not book any International flights to Ecuador; however we do have a great air travel specalist that we would be happy to refer you to. Please ask your Adventure Consultant for details.
Does Ecuador really use the US Dollar?
Yes! However, be sure to bring cash bills in good condition because bills with markings or tears won’t be accepted. There are also ATM machines in the larger towns. It’s a good idea to alert your bank that you’ll be traveling to Ecuador so they don’t stop the transactions.
Please check out our Galapagos and Ecuador currency resource for additional details.
What vaccinations do I need?
There are no special requirements or vaccines to go to Ecuador or the Galapagos Islands. Please visit the CDC Website for further details.
How much snorkeling is available on this trip?
There is an opportunity for snorkeling almost every day on this trip and the underwater life is a true highlight of visiting the Galapagos. Our trip offers more opportunities than most, and on some days we stop at two or three locations to snorkel.
If you’ve never been snorkeling we highly recommend you practice before the trip. It's not necessary but you will enjoy the experience much more!
Is snorkeling gear included?
Yes. On this trip, all of the equipment is on board. If you get cold easily you may want to bring or rent a wetsuit.
What documentation do I need?
Ecuadorian Immigration regulations state that, every foreign passenger entering the country must have a passport with a time validity of at least 6 months beginning from the day of your departure from Ecuador. If you have questions or concerns please contact the nearest Ecuadorian embassy for the latest visa requirements.
Money - Debit and Credit Cards
The local currency in The Galapagos Islands and throughout Ecuador is the US dollar. In the Islands, most major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners) are accepted at hotels and restaurants. In the local stores and cafes sometimes cash is the only way to pay. Try to carry smaller denomination notes, typically nothing bigger than a $20.
Time Zone?
The Galapagos Islands are GMT -6 hours and do not change their clocks for Daylight Savings (because they are on the equator). This means that in the summer months they are the same time as Mountain Daylight Time but in the winter months they are the same time as Central Standard Time.
Gratuities?
In Galapagos, leaving a gratuity for the guide and crew separately is the custom. Tipping is NOT a requirement and should be given at the guest's sole discretion based on the level of service received and each guests beliefs. If a guest wishes to leave a tip, please use the the envelopes marked "CREW" and "GUIDE" that will be left in the accommodations on your last day. Please put the envelopes in the gratuity box that will be left in the dining area on the day of your departure. All the money in the "CREW" envelope will be shared equally among the crew members. Based on past experience we suggest: If service was excellent, the average tip has been $22 per person per day for the entire ship's crew and $10 per person per day for the guide. Please understand that this is just a suggestion: tipping/gratuities are a very personal matter and it entirely depends on the value of the service you received.
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